If you are going to understand what’s happening to your daughter’s body, you need to know what you’re working with.

Getting it right (most of the time)

  1. Make sure she has a good relationship with your family doctor or get her a new doctor who she likes and feels comfortable with. 
  2. If she complains about one of her practitioners, get her a new one – trust is imperative. It doesn’t matter who’s right. 
  3. Listen to her problems and be kind – you don’t always have to solve things, she may just need your ear. Making an effort to understand goes a long way, though she’s probably only going to want to tell you so much – which is why her having a good relationship with her practitioners is so important. 

Common problems

How children’s vaginas differ from adult women’s

The primary difference between a child's and an adult woman's vagina lies in the levels of oestrogen, which influences the presence of lactobacilli and other beneficial bacteria. From birth, high oestrogen levels in babies lead to a rich lactobacilli presence, which decreases as they grow, until puberty reintroduces oestrogen and its protective effects on the vaginal environment.

Children’s yeast infections

Vaginal yeast infections in young girls are rare but can occur, particularly post-antibiotic use or illness. As children approach puberty, the risk increases. Treatment focuses on identifying the cause, using probiotics or probiotic foods to support the immune system, and, if necessary, consulting with a herbalist for child-friendly remedies.

Children’s UTIs

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children, often mistaken for urethral irritation, are more common than perceived. The close proximity of the urethra to the anus facilitates bacterial spread, leading to infections. Distinguishing between UTIs and irritation caused by external factors like toilet paper and soaps is crucial for effective treatment. Consulting a doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment is essential, alongside using hypo-allergenic products to prevent irritation.

Gynaecology in children and babies

Paediatric gynaecology offers a unique insight into the gynaecological health and development of children and babies, from neonatal stages through to adolescence. This article delves into the normal physiological changes, hormonal milestones, and the appropriate approach to examinations, providing a comprehensive overview of female sexual development during the early stages of life.

Vulvovaginitis and vaginal discharge in children

Vulvovaginitis in children can present with symptoms like itching, soreness, and unusual discharge, stemming from various causes including infections, foreign objects, or skin conditions. Understanding the causes and symptoms is crucial for effective management and treatment, highlighting the importance of gentle hygiene practices and medical consultation for diagnosis and care.

Treating a child’s minor urinary tract infection at home

When your child suffers from a minor urinary tract infection (UTI), immediate and effective home care is crucial. This article covers symptoms, reasons behind UTIs in children, and home remedies including cranberry and D-mannose treatments. It emphasizes the importance of professional medical care and provides guidance on managing symptoms at home while awaiting professional consultation.

Vagina and penis are not dirty words: teaching kids about their bodies

Discussing genitals using their correct names with children is crucial for their safety, self-confidence, and to foster open communication. It's not just about body positivity but also about abuse prevention, helping children articulate discomfort or pain accurately, and preparing them for changes during puberty. The article emphasizes the importance of parents overcoming their hesitations to provide their children with the knowledge they need for a healthier and happier life.

How to clean a child’s vulva and vagina

Cleaning a child's vulva and vagina requires gentle care, avoiding harsh soaps and teaching them proper hygiene as they grow. Learn to use plain water and soft cloths for cleaning, and why it's crucial to avoid irritants and educate your child on their body parts for their comfort and health.

Children's vaginas

Vagina and penis are not dirty words: teaching kids about their bodies

Discussing genitals using their correct names with children is crucial for their safety, self-confidence, and to foster open communication. It's not just about body positivity but also about abuse prevention, helping children articulate discomfort or pain accurately, and preparing them for changes during puberty. The article emphasizes the importance of parents overcoming their hesitations to provide their children with the knowledge they need for a healthier and happier life.

Cervical agenesis

Cervical agenesis is a rare congenital condition where the cervix fails to develop, leading to various reproductive and menstrual complications. This article explores the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for individuals affected by this condition, highlighting the importance of medical intervention in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Vaginal pinworms or threadworms

Vaginal pinworms, a misadventure of Enterobius vermicularis from the digestive tract to the vagina, present unique symptoms and require careful treatment. This article delves into the signs of infection, traditional and home remedies, and essential preventive practices to manage and eradicate these parasites effectively.

46,XX ovotesticular difference of sexual development (DSD)

46,XX ovotesticular DSD, also known as true hermaphroditism, occurs in 1 in every 20,000 live births, featuring both ovarian and testicular tissue. This comprehensive guide delves into its presentation, diagnosis, and the critical importance of psychological support and informed treatment choices, highlighting the complexity and individuality of each case.

Vulvar seborrheic dermatitis

Vulvar seborrheic dermatitis, though uncommon, can significantly impact those affected, usually occurring in infants or post-puberty. Linked with specific yeasts and influenced by factors such as emotional stress, Parkinson's disease, and changing seasons, this condition highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing dermatoses in sensitive areas.

Mycoplasma infections in children

Mycoplasma bacteria, tiny microbes lacking a cell wall, are known to cause genital diseases in children, including preterm labour in newborns. This article delves into the types of Mycoplasma that affect the genital tract, their transmission, symptoms, and the necessity for special testing and treatment due to their unique characteristics. The focus is on Mycoplasma hominis, M. genitalium, and Ureaplasma species, highlighting the importance of timely and specific treatment to combat these infections.

Transverse and longitudinal vaginal septum abnormalities

Vaginal septum abnormalities, including transverse and longitudinal types, can significantly impact women's health, from painful sex to complications in pregnancy. These congenital conditions, often unnoticed until puberty or later, may require surgical intervention for relief and to improve fertility outcomes. Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial for those affected.

Clues to help determine the cause of vulvar and vaginal problems affecting girls

Vulvar and vaginal issues in girls, ranging from urinary tract infections to yeast infections, present a variety of symptoms like discharge, itching, and pain. This article offers a guide to identifying these symptoms and understanding potential causes, from poor hygiene practices to more serious conditions like lichenoid conditions or labial adhesions, aiming to aid parents in navigating these sensitive health issues and when to seek professional advice.

Vulvovaginal-gingival lichen planus (or syndrome) (VVG-LP)

Vulvovaginal-gingival syndrome, a chronic form of lichen planus, causes inflammation and ulcers in the mouth, vulva, and vagina. It's often underreported due to the division of dental and gynecological care, despite potentially severe symptoms like scarring and mucosal shrinkage. This article explores its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options, shedding light on a condition that affects women predominantly between the ages of 50 and 60.

The Prader Scale of genitalia explained

The Prader Scale, developed by Dr. Andrea Prader, is a vital tool for assessing the degree of virilisation in human genitals, primarily used for diagnosing congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and other Disorders of Sexual Development (DSDs). This scale, ranging from 0 (fully female) to 6 (fully male), not only aids in medical diagnosis but also challenges the conventional binary understanding of genitalia, acknowledging a spectrum of genital presentations beyond the 'typical' male and female.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an adrenal gland disorder impacting cortisol synthesis due to an enzyme defect, leading to varied developmental effects. This condition, caused by a genetic mutation, can result in excessive or deficient sex hormone production, affecting sexual development and fertility. Treatment focuses on symptom management and hormone regulation, aiming for a balanced and healthy life despite the genetic challenge.

Turner syndrome

Turner syndrome, also known as 45, X or XO syndrome, is a chromosomal condition exclusive to females, characterized by a single X chromosome. With symptoms ranging from lack of breast development to infertility, Turner syndrome presents a unique set of challenges. Diagnosis often occurs around puberty, highlighting the importance of awareness and understanding of this condition that affects one in every 2,000 live female births.

Anatomy

Know your anatomy

Understanding how your child’s vulva and vagina are different to an adult woman’s is important, since it’s possible that your only experience with vaginas is in a sexual context with an adult. This is helpful, but only up to a point. Men in relationships with other men with very little experience in looking at or touching vulvas and vaginas may need a few more lessons.

This relationship to sexual contexts, and a lack of knowledge about any female’s body, can make men shy away from making important investigations and decisions about their daughter’s body. While this is understandable, with a bit more knowledge on what’s going on inside and out, you can feel confident in making executive care decisions. Knowing the anatomy of a child’s vulva and vagina is your first step.

Part of knowing the anatomy of a girl is calling things by their real names.

Call me by my name

You may be calling your daughter’s vagina or vulva by a name other than it’s real name, and now is the time to stop that cold turkey, and start naming body parts accurately. This is about much more than your possible embarrassment, and becomes a safety mechanism that you arm your daughter with.

Naming body parts accurately is important for a few reasons:

  • If something goes wrong, your daughter can name at least the area that is sore accurately to you or to a doctor
  • You and your daughter should feel comfortable referring to body parts by their real names, just like you would an arm or a foot
  • Using proper names stops kids feeling the shame of their parents around their bodies – don’t give your girl a hangup – she’s already got a pretty hard run ahead of her
  • If someone touches her inappropriately, your daughter can confidently speak up – ‘down there’ is pretty vague and can cause either unnecessary alarm or a lack of alarm when it is required
  • Teach her the body parts of boys too
  • Be prepared for your daughter to humiliate you inadvertently! Don’t tell her off for things that aren’t actually bad and use it as a teaching moment and laugh

To know what her body parts are called, you’ll need to check out the diagrams. You will need to be the judge of how much she needs to know based on her age and comprehension.

The most important names relate generally to the vagina and vulva – the inside is the vagina and the outside is the vulva. There is actually not one single name in English for the whole vulvovaginal area. Most people just call it the vagina, and mean the whole area, which is fine up to a certain point.

As she gets older and other things possibly go wrong, you can teach her other names for other areas, like vulva, labia, anus, clitoris, and perineum. You can do this teaching on a need-to-know basis as your child grows, but don’t shy away from it if it doesn’t come up. Take your educational moments where you can, so that if later something comes up, your daughter has her words. This means she’ll also have her words if something happens to her and you aren’t around to translate.

Gynaecology in children and babies

Paediatric gynaecology offers a unique insight into the gynaecological health and development of children and babies, from neonatal stages through to adolescence. This article delves into the normal physiological changes, hormonal milestones, and the appropriate approach to examinations, providing a comprehensive overview of female sexual development during the early stages of life.

The vulva and vagina through ages and changes

From birth through to old age, the female body experiences significant transformations, particularly in the vulva and vagina. This article delves into the developmental stages, from the effects of hormones in the womb, through puberty, pregnancy, and into menopause, highlighting the natural changes and challenges faced at each stage. Understanding these changes is crucial for health, sexual well-being, and embracing the body's evolution over a lifetime.

Vag basics

The vagina and vulva are integral parts of female anatomy, each with unique structures and functions. From sexual pleasure to childbirth, this guide demystifies their roles and explains the difference between the two, complete with engaging diagrams to enhance understanding. Discover the complexities of these body parts, their contribution to sexual health, and the importance of knowing the correct terminology.

Understanding female anatomy

This comprehensive guide to female anatomy is designed to educate both learners and parents. It covers key anatomical areas such as the labia, clitoris, vagina, and more, providing the latest in anatomy news and insights. Whether you're starting your anatomical journey or looking to deepen your understanding, this guide offers valuable information on the complexities of female anatomy.

Vulvovaginitis and infections

A child’s vagina has very little bacteria (good or bad) in it, because it is the influence of oestrogen that encourages friendly bacteria to grow. Oestrogen, which only starts at puberty, causes the vaginal cells to produce glycogen (a sugar) that lactobacilli feed on. Without the oestrogen or glycogen, a prepubertal girl’s vagina is very much like her grandmother’s in many ways, sans the wrinkles and greys.

This can mean her putting the wrong things in or close to her vagina (think wiping from back to front, dirty toys or toilet paper, you name it) can cause infections, as there isn’t a lot to defend the vagina from invaders. Vulvovaginitis remains a common affliction of young girls, but usually identifying the cause and removing it/treating it solves the problem quickly.

Low to no oestrogen also makes her vulva and vagina look and behave in a unique way that will change once she hits puberty. This is important, because your relationship will change at this point, and you need to know the signs that she is having hormonal shifts and puberty is impending.

Vulvovaginitis and vaginal discharge in children

Vulvovaginitis in children can present with symptoms like itching, soreness, and unusual discharge, stemming from various causes including infections, foreign objects, or skin conditions. Understanding the causes and symptoms is crucial for effective management and treatment, highlighting the importance of gentle hygiene practices and medical consultation for diagnosis and care.

Mycoplasma infections in children

Mycoplasma bacteria, tiny microbes lacking a cell wall, are known to cause genital diseases in children, including preterm labour in newborns. This article delves into the types of Mycoplasma that affect the genital tract, their transmission, symptoms, and the necessity for special testing and treatment due to their unique characteristics. The focus is on Mycoplasma hominis, M. genitalium, and Ureaplasma species, highlighting the importance of timely and specific treatment to combat these infections.

Children’s yeast infections

Vaginal yeast infections in young girls are rare but can occur, particularly post-antibiotic use or illness. As children approach puberty, the risk increases. Treatment focuses on identifying the cause, using probiotics or probiotic foods to support the immune system, and, if necessary, consulting with a herbalist for child-friendly remedies.

Vaginal pinworms or threadworms

Vaginal pinworms, a misadventure of Enterobius vermicularis from the digestive tract to the vagina, present unique symptoms and require careful treatment. This article delves into the signs of infection, traditional and home remedies, and essential preventive practices to manage and eradicate these parasites effectively.

Treating a child’s minor urinary tract infection at home

When your child suffers from a minor urinary tract infection (UTI), immediate and effective home care is crucial. This article covers symptoms, reasons behind UTIs in children, and home remedies including cranberry and D-mannose treatments. It emphasizes the importance of professional medical care and provides guidance on managing symptoms at home while awaiting professional consultation.

Genital ulcers from non-sexually-transmissible viral sources

Vulvar ulcers, not caused by sexually transmitted infections, can afflict young women and adolescents, often linked to viruses like Epstein-Barr and cytomegalovirus. These ulcers, known as Lipschutz ulcers or vulvar aphthae, present with symptoms such as pain, swollen lymph nodes, and flu-like signs. A study highlights the prevalence and characteristics of these ulcers, underscoring the need for sensitive handling when treating young patients.

Vulvovaginitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae in children

Vulvovaginitis, a common condition in prepubertal girls, can be caused by Haemophilus influenzae, a bacteria less known than streptococcus but equally significant. This article explores the symptoms, antibiotic resistance issues, and the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment to manage this condition effectively.

Shigella vaginal infections

Shigella spp. is a bacterium causing vaginal infections and vulvovaginitis, mainly in children, presenting symptoms similar to gonorrhoea. It is highly resistant to common antibiotics, making careful diagnosis and treatment essential. The condition can be accompanied by discharge, diarrhoea, and is often confused with other infections due to its symptoms.

Puberty

Understanding the onset of puberty

Puberty happens over a couple of years, with the first signs puffy, sore nipples and pubic hair. She’ll start to smell different and need a bit of coaching on personal hygiene, and of course some deodorant (and instructions on how to use it).

The pubic hair will start as a fine fluff, and there won’t be much. Usually she’ll have some extra fat on her body, since a girl needs at least 17 per cent body fat for enough oestrogen to be made to trigger ovulation and the menstrual cycle.

It’s important to be very considerate of her changing body and privacy needs. This will signal a change in your relationship where she goes from being an open kid to a more secretive, shy pre-teen. It’s important to have set the scene with her before this happens to ensure that she feels like she can talk to you about things that might concern her.

It’s also useful to have set her up with a female adult, if her mother is not around, so that she has someone to ask tricky questions that she doesn’t want to ask you. If you have educated yourself, however, and show yourself to be knowledgeable, you may just find that she feels comfortable to ask you some things. This is a great spot to be, but most men miss this opportunity.

A hands-on guide to getting to know your vulva

This hands-on guide demystifies the anatomy and functions of the vulva, offering detailed steps for self-examination and understanding. From the protective labia to the sensitive clitoris, learn how each part plays a crucial role in sexual sensation, protection, and more. With practical advice on getting familiar with your own body, this article empowers women to embrace their anatomy, recognize normal variations, and identify when to seek medical advice.

How nature figures out when we get our periods

Research reveals intriguing insights into how living conditions and family composition affect the age at which girls get their first period. From the presence of siblings to the percentage of body fat, various factors contribute to this significant milestone in a woman's life. This article delves into the evolutionary strategies behind menstruation timing, the impact of inbreeding, and unexpected findings from a comprehensive study.

Periods

Understanding her period

You may have spent your whole life avoiding talking to women about their periods, and know zilch. Before your daughter gets her period, give yourself a crash course in periods and the menstrual cycle so you don’t miss important clues.

The important part of periods that you need to keep an eye on are:

    1. Watch that she gets her period within the allotted time frame (i.e. after age 10 and before age 15 give or take), and if it doesn’t come, take her to the doctor.
    2. Make sure her periods are reasonably regular and fit into the not too close together and not too far apart category (between 21 and 35 days apart, any number between is fine each time).
    3. Teach her how to track her periods using a period tracker app or calendar. The day to record is the day bleeding starts, as that is Day 1 of the menstrual cycle. 
    4. Give her the information she needs to figure out when she ovulates, and how she can learn to feel it (this helps later when unwanted pregnancies are on the cards – knowledge is power!).
    5. Ensure her period pain is managed adequately – teach her how to use self-care to alleviate period pain at home, with or without medication, so that she can treat herself anywhere anytime, and also buy her own drugs. Period pain, especially early on, can be debilitating. 
    6. Take her to the doctor if her period pain is severe or even just really bad – she may have something more going on than just her period.
    7. She has choices regarding what she would like to use as her menstrual hygiene products (pads, tampons, menstrual cup, period undies) but may need someone to teach her how to use them (can be the internet). Make sure she has options. 
    8. Making sure she doesn’t feel embarrassed asking you to buy supplies or give her money to buy her own (and make sure she does). Check if her school has free supplies available. 
    9. Arrange for her to buy new underwear more regularly – periods come unexpectedly and they really do ruin underwear – black or red cotton underwear is a good choice to minimise shopping.
    10. Teach her how to use stain remover and wash her own clothes.
    11. Explain period hygiene and etiquette.
    12. Explain what she can expect from her period.
How to get hormone and blood testing

Understanding the optimal days for hormone and blood testing can significantly impact the accuracy of your results. Whether you're experiencing symptoms influenced by hormonal imbalances or simply wish to check your health status, knowing the correct day of your menstrual cycle or adjusting for menopausal status is crucial. This article guides you through choosing the right day for testing, interpreting results with a practitioner, and navigating private testing options.

Understanding light or irregular periods (oligomenorrhoea)

Irregular periods, or oligomenorrhoea, can be a sign of underlying health issues or natural life changes. This article explores the causes, from hormonal imbalances like PCOS and thyroid issues to lifestyle factors, and outlines both medical and holistic treatment options. Understanding the reasons behind irregular menstrual cycles is the first step towards effective management and treatment, aiming to restore balance and health.

Is my period pain normal?

Period pain is a common experience, but severe period pain is not normal and may indicate underlying health issues. This article explores the difference between normal and severe period pain, natural treatments for managing discomfort, and the importance of seeking medical advice for persistent or severe pain. It also touches on conditions like endometriosis and the role of diet and lifestyle changes in managing menstrual pain.

The smell of blood – why your period smells metallic

The metallic smell of period blood, often compared to the scent of coins, is not directly caused by iron but by the interaction of iron with skin oils or blood itself. This article explores the complex chemical reactions that lead to the creation of odorous carbonyl hydrocarbons, challenging common misconceptions and shedding light on how our bodies and blood interact with metals. It also delves into how these smells affect us psychologically, revealing intriguing gender differences in our responses to the scent of blood.

What to expect from your period

Understanding your menstrual cycle is crucial for managing it effectively. This article covers essential aspects of periods, including how to track them, deal with period pain, choose sanitary products, and recognize signs of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It also touches on the importance of knowing your body, including changes to your vagina and vulva, and offers guidance on using tampons, menstrual cups, pads, and period undies.

What your period blood colour and consistency means

The colour and consistency of your period blood can offer clues about your overall health. From bright red indicating a healthy period to dark, thick, or brown blood suggesting slower flow, and even pale, watery blood hinting at hormonal imbalances, this article delves into what various period blood characteristics might mean for your health. It also touches on conditions like heavy periods and mid-cycle bleeding, advising when to consult a healthcare practitioner.

How nature figures out when we get our periods

Research reveals intriguing insights into how living conditions and family composition affect the age at which girls get their first period. From the presence of siblings to the percentage of body fat, various factors contribute to this significant milestone in a woman's life. This article delves into the evolutionary strategies behind menstruation timing, the impact of inbreeding, and unexpected findings from a comprehensive study.

What’s the difference between PMS and PMDD?

Understanding the difference between premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While PMS symptoms are often physical, PMDD primarily affects mood and can significantly impact daily life. This article dives into the symptoms, diagnosis criteria, and treatment options for both conditions, helping you identify if you might have PMDD and what steps to take next.

Understanding Hormones

What is relative oestrogen deficiency?

Relative oestrogen deficiency is a hormonal imbalance where oestrogen levels are low compared to other hormones, leading to symptoms like irregular periods, vaginal dryness, and infertility. This condition can be influenced by diet, exercise, body weight, and other factors. Understanding its causes and management is crucial for those affected.

The real cause of acne (plus the solution)

Acne is fundamentally a hormonal issue, influenced by factors such as diet, skincare habits, and stress. Understanding the three-step process of acne formation—blocked pores, infection, and inflammation—can guide effective management strategies, including dietary changes and natural treatments to balance hormones and combat acne.

What causes PCOS?

The cause of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is complex, involving factors like insulin resistance, weight, diet, lifestyle, and genetics. Understanding these can help in managing the condition more effectively, despite the medical community not having a definitive answer on the exact cause. This article delves into how insulin resistance affects the body, the impact of weight, and the role of genetics in PCOS, offering insights into managing the condition through lifestyle adjustments.

Acne and PCOS

Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) often face acne due to hormonal imbalances, particularly high levels of androgens and low progesterone. This article delves into the causes of acne in PCOS, including the role of insulin resistance and offers dietary tips to manage these breakouts effectively.

Hormones and the menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is a series of predictable hormonal fluctuations beyond just reproduction. This guide simplifies the cycle from hormones like oestrogen and progesterone to key events like menstruation and ovulation, offering insights into the changes your body goes through from puberty to menopause. Understand the signs of ovulation and the impact of your cycle on mood, physical health, and sexual well-being.

Synthetic hormones in contraceptive pills and rings

This article provides a comprehensive guide on the various synthetic hormones found in contraceptive pills and rings, aimed at assisting individuals in making well-informed choices regarding their contraceptive methods. The detailed table included offers a clear comparison of the hormonal components in different contraceptive options, facilitating a better understanding of each method's potential impact on the body.

How your gut bacteria affect oestrogen

The relationship between your gut bacteria and oestrogen is crucial for hormonal balance, affecting everything from vaginal health to bone density. This article explores how gut bacteria regulate oestrogen metabolism through the oestrobolome process, impacting your overall health and potentially influencing cancer risk.

Understanding oestriol (E3)

Oestriol (E3), the weakest yet significant oestrogen, plays crucial roles during pregnancy and offers therapeutic benefits, including alleviating atrophic vaginitis and potentially managing multiple sclerosis symptoms. Despite its limited research, E3's unique properties make it a valuable component in hormone therapy, especially in Europe where it's widely approved and used. This article delves into E3's production, benefits, and the ongoing debate surrounding its safety in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.